Eco-communities across Canada including O.U.R. Ecovillage on Vancouver Island, Yarrow Ecovillage in mainland B.C., Whole Village in Ontario, and La Cite Ecologique in Quebec initially met to discuss Ecovillages. Soon we had created a Canadian network. From there, we were connected to the Ecovillage Network of the Americas, and the Global Ecovillage Network.
Since 1996, through what is now Ecovillages Canada, we have been working to create more sustainable communities in Canada and with our international partners, throughout the world. Over the years, we have had participants across the country from most provinces. Despite many challenges of distance and resources, we have continued to be active in Canada. At international meetings including at Findhorn, Scotland, and at Schweibenalp in Switzerland, and through zoom calls, we have provided a Canadian perspective on building the global eco-community network. What a wonderful experience serving with others from Europe, Asia, Africa and South America!
Why is this global relationship important for Ecovillages Canada? There are at least 3 critical factors:
- Motivation from knowing there are people across the globe working for a sustainable earth. This encourages me and I believe, others to continue our work at home. We must act now, and we must act fast to save Mother earth.
- Connection – we know that community is a key to regenerative change on earth. The broader connection provided by the Global Network means there is a world-wide community to move us forward in our work for sustainability.
- Shared resources – I have learned how important sharing the ideas and approaches are to making a difference everywhere. The opportunity to create stronger organizations to get resources, for example, from the United Nations, the European Union, and international funders has and will continue to help our amazing global community network to continue to grow and make the world a better place. Just as critical is being able to use the people resources from cultures and communities across the world. I am sure other reasons for the connection of Ecovillages Canada globally exist but I have highlighted
these three.
We invite you to join us in community in this amazing and challenging journey to help save Mother Earth.